A/N:
Hi everyone, Merry Christmas!
Sorry, it's been almost a year since I last updated, but my hiatus is finally over. I will try to work on my fic to some extent each day, I have not long started a chef's apprenticeship and get little time to work on it, but I will try my best.
I've been through a lot this year, I had to move house, do long distance studying for my animal care qualification. All while helping to look after my Mum and siblings, all in all, I haven't had a lot of time for writing but my new year's resolution (is it too early to have one?) is to write more
As usual, I hope you enjoy my fic, and please review and/or PM with your feedback.
Chapter 4: Moving day
Judy's PoV:
Today is Monday, two days since Nick and I recalled what happened on that eventful Friday night, and nothing much has happened… Unless you count Dr Whitpaw stopping by to tell me when I can be released! She said that she was more than happy with how quickly I have been recovering and that if all looked good after a quick examination I should have my discharge papers signed this afternoon. I was so overwhelmed by the prospect of freedom that without even realising it I was up and bouncing on my oversized hospital bed much to the amusement, and no doubt annoyance, of the female ocelot. She had cleared her throat in an attempt to get my attention, or so I am told by Nick, but to no avail. I was oblivious to her concern and it was only when Nick arrived on the scene and sat me down himself did I realise that I had just been jumping on a bed much like a small child. Only after order had been restored was the doctor able to inform me that my final check-up would be around 1 pm today, she thanked Nick for his help and they bid us goodbye. Which brings you up to speed on the events of the last two days.
"I see your leg is better, I only caught the back end of that but I assume from your little… um… display that you've been told when you're gettin' outta here?" Nick asked curiously, smiling as if he already knew the answer. He looks cute when he smiles like that, I thought to myself. …wait, what? I mentally shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts. Nick's my friend I shouldn't be thinking like this, where the hell did that even come from?
I was brought back to reality by Nick, oh the irony of it! "So… When are you getting out of this joint?"
I beamed at him, "I'm being freed today! I can't wait to be able to go wherever I like again; I know I've only been in here since Wednesday but it feels like I've been in here weeks."
"Huh… I better get packin' then, I didn't think I'd be moving in with you so soon. We haven't even had our first date yet, you sure are moving things fast, eh Carrots?" He teased at me with that infuriating smirk plastered on his face.
Oh shit! I forgot about that, I was too excited about getting out today. I thought, a wave of guilt swelling in my throat, how could I forget when it means so much to Nick?... Wait did he just say what I thought he said, no matter I know how to get him back. I know he was only teasing but for some reason the comment about us dating made my face feel warm, oh gods I hope I'm not blushing.
"Oh darling, I'm so sorry I completely forgot. But I'm glad you brought it up… I've been giving it some thought… and I think you should meet my dad first after all this is a big step we're taking." Even though I was only playing I couldn't help but feel my cheeks flush, we're friends so why am I getting like this?
Nick looked like the proverbial deer caught in headlights, he was wide-eyed and slack-jawed. His mouth hung open, but all of that would soon be forgotten as I was not prepared for what he did next…
To my utter shock, he stood up, from his customary place in the large armchair, and dropped to a knee. Nick then took my hand and said in a kind gentle voice, "Judith Hopps…" I don't think I've ever heard him say my proper name, "… Never before have I met a mammal that could match my level of sarcasm, you are a worthy adversary and for that, you have my eternal respect." Throughout the whole ordeal he had kept a straight face, he looked like a mammal that had just been humbled and was showing his contentment, a moment of true bliss as he discovered he is not alone and that there are others like him in the world.
Needless to say, neither of us could keep a straight face for too long after that, how Nick remained stoic the entire time I will never know. After a few moments we managed to regain our composure, and Nick slouched back into his chair, and soon after the room descended into a comfortable silence. As you could assume I, the hyperactive and excitable bunny, was the one to put an end to our silence.
"To be honest I nearly forgot about you moving in with me…" I admitted, trailing off towards the end as a new wave of guilt washed over me.
Nick's grin faltered for a moment but he recovered quickly, making sure to keep his face devoid of emotion. "Don't worry 'bout it Carrots, you've had a lot on your mind." He informed me gently, but he kept his emotions hidden behind that smile of his. "I was only messing anyway; I didn't expect it to happen anytime soon… You're only getting out today so you should have some time to rest."
"I didn't mean it like that… I was the one who said for you to come live with me, and I'm fine I don't need any more rest." I told him stubbornly, I'm sick of resting anyway. "Of course you can move in today, but I'm not helping you move any boxes." I smiled sweetly at him, "I've got a doctor's note."
"That's fine by me, I ain't got that much stuff anyway." He said rubbing his hands together, I was happy to see that the usual twinkle in his eyes had returned. He is a big softie, I thought with a smirk.
"How's Finnick been since you two made up?" I asked out of the blue, "I know you two patched things up on Saturday, but you haven't said how he's been with you staying with him."
"He's been alright about it all, he said he understands why I'm doing it and that he was just mad 'cause I sprung it on him without much warning." He explained to me, "He appreciates that I gave him some space to cool off after telling him, thanks for that by the way I didn't think of that at the time."
"Good, I'm glad there's no hard feeling between you two anymore."
He smiled. "There wasn't any, to begin with, he and I have been through too much together for that." Nick glanced at the clock on the wall, it read 12:35. "It's nearly time for your check-up, we better get all your stuff packed ready." He told me. It won't take that long, I thought to myself, I only have a few toiletries and my phone charger with me.
To my utter shock, it took us a whole two minutes to pack all of my belongings into the small backpack I had with me. It had been a bit embarrassing when I had to ask Nick to go to my place to grab me some stuff, he was the only person I could ask to pop in mine, but he said he didn't mind. Dr Whitpaw said she'd be round about 1 pm, so hopefully, that will mean she is a bit early. I wondered silently.
As luck would have it she arrived just before thirteen hundred hours, she carried a clipboard with her which I prayed contained my discharge papers. She glanced at the backpack, now slung over the bottom left post of the bed, and stated, "I see you have high hopes on leaving today, what with already packing." She smiled at me, "I'm surprised you haven't already changed out of your hospital gown."
I couldn't help but grin, "I was considering it, but I figured I'd only need to get changed again to be checked." The prospect that in a few minutes I could be… no, I will be walking out of this hospital almost had me bouncing with joy, again.
"Now then shall we get on with this, I know how excited you must be." She looked at me with those comforting eyes, they contained her amusement as she monitored my reaction. "Mr Wilde, would you mind stepping outside while I examine Miss Hopps' wound. Given its location, I figured that might be best unless you are okay with him staying?" She asked me teasingly, did she think that we were together!
I blushed at what she had implied. Nick must have decided it would be best to wait outside because he suddenly made his way to the door, out of the corner of my eye I could have sworn he looked embarrassed as he left the room. That can't be right, even I can't make him embarrassed. I thought, considering why he would be like this. I was shocked out of my thoughts when Dr Whitpaw gently placed her hand on my shoulder to get my attention.
"Could you lift the bed covers for me please, while I examine the wound?" I simply nodded in response and then did as she asked.
"You and Mr Wilde seem close, I've never seen such a dedicated friend." She stated with a sly smirk, empathising the word friend as though it meant something completely different.
I found my voice again, "We're just friends." I said shyly, what the hell is wrong with me today?
She smiled warmly at me, "Don't worry, I'm just teasing you." She said kindly, "But if you ask me you two would make a cute couple."
Once again I lost my ability to speak and settled for sitting quietly.
"And we are done!" She said cheerfully, "I am happy to say that you are healing nicely and are free to leave."
"That's great! When will I be able to go back to normal police work, no doubt I've got to take it is for a while." I said, grumbling the last part more to myself than anything.
"You will need to have your stitches removed in a week, so you will need to take it easy until them." She spoke sternly to me as if I was a cub who would disobey her instructions. "But after that, you will be able to return to more strenuous work, but it would be best to pace yourself."
"I'll be sure to do that, thanks, doc." I held my hand out to the female who took it.
"I hope I don't see you for some time Officer Hopps, I will just sign this form and then you can leave." She explained to me, "Oh, but you might want to go change"
I grabbed my stuff and headed for the bathroom, just as I was about to enter Dr Whitpaw spoke again, "I'll leave your form on the bedside table, and tell your friend he can come back in. Goodbye Miss Hopps, and remember; take it easy." She told me mischievously, and with that, she was gone. Once again feeling embarrassed, I made my way into the bathroom to change.
Nick's PoV:
As I left Judy's hospital room, I couldn't help but think about what the doctor had said. Does she think we're together, I know I visit Judy every day but does she think we're dating? My cheeks felt a bit warm as I thought about the idea of us being together, that could be a nice life… but she's my friend, and besides she probably only sees us as friends. My thoughts must have shown on my face because when I saw Judy out of the corner of my eye she looked confused about something. I hope she hasn't caught on to what I was thinking about, I pondered silently as I shut the door behind me.
I just stood and thought about what it is going to be like to be roommates with Judy, I stood there thinking about our friendship and how it had come to this. It's ironic how a sly con-fox will be moving in with an innocent, cute bunny officer. She really does prove that anyone can be anything, look at us now; predator and prey friends and living together no less. I never thought I'd see the day when I would be excited at the idea of living with a copper, I'm still not sure how this is going to work but it should be an interesting experience, like a new adventure.
"You can go back in now, Mr Wilde." I turned around and met the ocelot's eyes, they seem to be full of amusement, "Your friend is getting changed at the moment, I expect she'll be done shortly." There it is again, I thought. She said friend as if we're not as if we're covering for being something else.
"Okay, thanks." Then I thought about what she said. "Does that mean she's being released?" I asked the doctor hopefully.
She smiled, "Yes, she's free to go." She looked down at her watch, "Sorry, but I need to get going now. I've got another patient to see soon, goodbye." And with that, she turned and started to walk down the hall.
"Bye… oh and thanks, doc." I said to her.
She stopped for a moment, turned to look at me over her shoulder. "Make sure Hopps takes it easy for a while." She tells me. Her once serious demeanour was brought to an end. "I expect you're the only one she'd listen to anyway." She states with a sly smirk, and with that, afterthought, she continued on her way down the hall. Shaking my head, I turned to the door that was once Judy's room and entered.
Once inside the room I found that Judy had finished changing into the clothes she asked me to grab, I admit she didn't specify what to grab so I thought it would be best if I picked out something comfortable. Her outfit consisted of light grey jogging bottoms, I figured the loose fit would be more appropriate with her wound then jeans, and an oversized blue t-shirt. The bottom of the top hung down past her waist like a dress, the short-sleeves of the shirt almost reached her elbows and much like the rest of the t-shirt the neckline to was so large that if it slipped it would most likely expose her shoulder. All in all, she looked extremely comfy and quite cute in her lounging clothes.
"So, you all ready to go?" I ask rhetorically. The way she's been behaving you would have thought she was a kitten on Christmas day.
"Yep!"
"Alright then…" I held way arm out to her, "Shall we milady?"
She took my hand with all the grace and poise of royalty, she spoke to me in a voice of someone of great importance and stature, "I think we shall, Mr Wilde. I will dearly miss those that I have come to meet in my time here and will hold them in a place in my heart, but I must agree it is time to move on."
We received a few strange looks as we made our way down the hall to the lift, but we were glad to be on our way as we rode to the bottom. Thankful that in just a few short moments we will be walking out of this strange smelling environment and on our way to Judy's flat, soon to be my new home.
Nick's PoV:
"So… what's the plan of action for moving you in?" Asked the ever curious Judy Hopps for the umpteenth time, her violet orbs locking with mine in an attempt for an answer.
"For the last time I don't have a plan, do I need one?" I asked incredulously, "I don't think I need a plan to move a few personal belongings, do you?"
"But surely you have stuff that you want to bring with you?"
"I've been on and off the streets for the last twelve years, I'm used to having all my worldly belongings on my person." I told her, "My plan for moving was to check my pockets and stop by Finn's van to grab a couple of things, you know, like my roll mat and sleeping bag."
She looked at me with concern in her eyes, what did she expect? I asked myself, she knew I lived under a bridge, why is she surprised that I don't have much stuff? We continued on our way down one of Sahara square's busy streets, about fifty feet down was a little alleyway with a familiar looking van parked up. That was our destination.
Most mammals didn't notice the side road, but those that do give it a wide berth making sure to steer away from it. Judy and I are different from most mammals, which is why we chose to go down the dark foreboding alley throwing caution to the wind… Well, I say that but who would be stupid enough to go down Finnick's alley, a nickname I had given to the place as it was one of Finnick's usual parking spaces. This being Finn's territory we didn't need to worry about someone trying to mug us, but that being said Judy did seem a bit uncomfortable walking in or in my case waltzing in.
We walked up to the 'tastefully' decorated van, a bit more cautiously than we did the alley. There was never a way of knowing if Finn would jump out with that baseball bat of his, so we decided to approach from the front of the van so we wouldn't startle him into action. We got to the van unscathed, I reached out my left paw and knocked on the side of the van.
Bang, bang…
"Who's that!?" Finn shouted through the metal wall of the vehicle, "Wha you want!?"
I decided to have some fun with him, I cleared my throat and put on a slightly deeper voice. "It's the police." I told him firmly, "We are here to talk to you about your con partner, Nicholas P. Wilde."
"I ain't no con mammal and I don't know no one by that name, so you must be in the wrong place." He replied calmly, I knew he would defend me, it made me feel happy that I had such a loyal friend.
I looked at Judy, she had gone wide-eyed and was shaking her head at me. "Don't!" she mouthed at me, disapproval in her eyes but also worry. She shook her head again, her ears were tight against the back of her head and swung side to side as she did. "He'll kill you when he finds out it's you!" She whispered to me.
I being a mature and life loving mammal decided I would keep going and take it further.
"We have reason to believe that he has been staying with you for the past few days, we have him in custody and are here to collect his belongings from you. He has been charged with tax evasion, fraud, and selling food without a permit. We are here to collect any incriminating evidence and take you with us for a talk downtown, Mr Wilde was very cooperative in giving us your address."
"That's bollocks! Nick would never give me up!" He screamed at me defensively, and then seeing his slip up he mumbled, "Ah, fuckin' hell… Wish I knew when to keep my mouth shut."
"Lay on the floor with your hands on your back, we're coming in!" I ordered him, I heard him get on the floor so I swung the door open and yelled, "Freeze sucker! You have the right to remain stupid!"
He looked up in shock at the insult, his expression changed from surprise to anger to murderous rage in the blink of an eye. "NICK!" He growled at me, in the space of a second he threw himself at me hurtling us onto the tarmac of the alleyway floor and began furiously beating me. Thank the gods he wasn't holding his bat 'cause I don't think he would have hesitated to use it against me.
Judy scrambled over to break up the fight, she quickly grabbed the smaller fox and somehow managed to restrain him. I remember thinking at the time, I haven't a bloody clue how she can keep a hold on him, I couldn't even get him off me let alone keep him in check.
"Finn! Finn, I was only joking!" I scream at him when he tried to escape again. "Calm down before someone…"
"Most likely you," Judy muttered, anticipating where my sentence was going.
"… Gets hurt." I said finishing my sentence, I held my hand out to Finnick. "Truce?" I asked, or as Judy would tell you pleaded with the fennec fox, just for the record I did not beg so don't believe a word Judy says.
"Fine." He grumbled in reply, he grabbed my hand and helped me to my feet.
Judy decided she would straighten the matter out and tell Finn why we were really in his alley, "We are actually here to grab Nick's stuff, sorry about a minute ago that was this idiot's idea not mine." She told him, jabbing a finger in my direction. "I doubt Nick told you but he's moving in with me… I mean, so I can help him prepare for the Academy" She rushed out, with what looked like a blush on her face. What's she embarrassed about, I wondered to myself.
"Also..." I add, "Would I be able to borrow that old camping bed you have, just for a little while?"
Judy looked at me, "So you do have a plan for moving after all." She stated sarcastically.
"I don't use it no more… so I guess you can have it if you like." Good old Finn, always ready to lend a paw.
"Thanks, I owe you one."
"As long as you don't pull that stunt again I'll call it quits."
My lips stretched into a smile, "I think I can manage that. Cheers Finn, you may be rough round the edges but you're a hell of a good friend."
Finn looked at me and smirked, "You're doing me a favour by taking that thing." He told me, "I've been meaning to get rid of it for a while now."
"Thanks anyway Finn, even if it's just to get rid, I appreciate the gesture."
"No worries, mate."
Judy decided enough was enough and joined us in the conversation, "How are you Finnick?" She asked politely.
"Not too bad officer fluff, what 'bout you? Nick told me what happened to your leg."
She smiled at Finn, "I'm fine, thank you. I just got out of the hospital today, I didn't think you cared."
Finn scowled at her, "No!" He said a bit loudly, "It's not that I care, it's just Nicky here wouldn't shut up about you when he was staying with me, I'm glad to finally be getting my own space back."
She glanced at me and I tried and failed, to look nonchalant. I swear my cheeks felt warm, damn you, Finn… always trying to embarrass me!
"Aww…" She cooed, I'm not going to hear the bloody end of this am I? "I didn't know you cared about me so much Nick, I get him…" She jabbed a thumb in Finn's direction. "…Not caring, but I didn't think you would be that concerned."
"Common" I grumbled, trying to hide my embarrassment, "We need to get this bed back to yours, see you later Finn and thanks again for the bed."
As I turned to leave I could see Judy and Finnick shearing a look from my peripheral vision, what are those two up to? I wondered.
"Bye Finn." I heard Judy say, I could almost see the smile that I heard in her voice.
And with that we were on our way to Judy's flat, soon to be my new home for the foreseeable future. I couldn't wait to finally have a real home again.
Judy's Pov:
By the time we got back to my apartment complex the evening sun was starting to set, the reds and gold of the sky reflected off of almost every surface distracting the eye. The evening was mild, the air was warm but a gentle breeze rustled in the leaves of the trees lining the road, the wind didn't chill you but instead made the warmth of the evening more comfortable. We were walking down the road to my building… or should I say our building? It's strange, not a few months ago I came to this city with no friends… now I'm walking down the street with my best friend and soon-to-be roommate. It's strange how the world works, one minute you're regretting your choices and second-guessing yourself, and next thing you know life throws you an obstacle. You need to fight for what you want and the reward is always worth the risk… I got a new best friend out of it, so it can't be all bad!
We reached the doorway into the building, the paint was peeling off of the wooden door, the front step was well worn after many years of service and disrepair. As Nick and I stepped up off of the street and into the building, it finally hit that this was real and me and Nick really are going to be roomies. I couldn't wait! We are going to have so much fun, we can chat for longer now that we're living together and we can play games like a sleep-over. And hopefully, some of my good habits will rub off on Nick. I wonder if I can get him to come running with me? I silently wondered.
We made our way from the entrance hall through one of the back doors, which lead us to the old dusty stairwell. Each step creaked under the strain of our weight, which in all fairness isn't much giving me little faith in the ancient stairs, as we made our way up to the first floor. Our destination.
Nick and I had fallen into a comfortable silence during our walk to the apartment building, so once we made it to our level I was startled when Nick suddenly spoke up. "I still can't thank you enough, Carrots, you don't need to let me stay with you." He told me earnestly.
I gave him a lop-sided grin, "What was I supposed to do, huh, let my best friend keep living under a bridge?" I jumped into the air and punched his arm, it's become our little thing. I hit him and he mocks me. "Nah, you're stuck with me, slick. Anyway how else are you going to get into the academy if I don't help you study, eh?" I teased.
He looked at me with that teasing, displeased look of his. "First of all, you hit like a bunny, and second who said need, let alone want your help?" He cracked a smile, "Nope, I'm better off under my bridge relaxing until it's time for me to wing my entry exam. That or I could get the answers off of someone who's been there, whatda say, Carrots, you gonna hook your bestie up with a cheat sheet?"
"Fat chance, you're not that slick, Nick." I grinned back, Hey, that rhymes!
"Oh well, it was worth a try, sooo… this our stop?" He asked gesturing to the first door of the narrow hallway.
"No." I replied simply, "Ours is two doors down, you should know that… I did ask you to grab some things for me."
Nick wandered ahead a little and pointed to a door. I assume to check he had the right one, I nodded my head in reply and walked up to it. "I'll just get the door so you can get that bed in."
Nick's PoV:
"Ta, Fluff." I thanked as I stumbled through the door with the Finns old camping bed.
"No problem." She watched me anxiously, wondering what my reaction would be to her room. "So…" She asked, "What do you think?"
I looked around the room that will soon be my home, its small but I'm sure we can make work, I thought. I think I'll have a bit of fun with this. "How's this going to work?" I asked her.
The small bunny looked embarrassed, "I don't know… Honestly, I hadn't put much thought into it." She replied sheepishly.
"Gee… Thanks, Carrots." I retorted sarcastically, "Glad to know I'm loved!"
"Oh stop complaining... You're acting like a kit." She replied, "I thought we could figure it out closer to the time, and anyway anything is better than sleeping under a bridge or in an old van."
I smirked at the unsuspecting bunny, "Is that so…" I drawled out slowly. "I don't see you inviting Finn in."
The small rabbit shot me a glare as if she knew where I was going with this which was unlikely because I had only thought of it myself a moment ago. "Is it because you only have a soft spot for one fox in particular?"
Judy looked flustered like she couldn't believe what I had asked and didn't have a witty response lined up… or maybe I had hit the nail on the head and she does have a soft spot for me, I thought for a moment. No that can't be right, we're just friends… right? That nagging voice and the back of my mind chose to speak up, yeah... just friends who happen to moving in together, sounds legit. It answered sarcastically.
If you don't shut the hell up I'm going to get both of us thrown in a mental hospital! I internally screamed, fuck… I'm actually having an argument with myself, maybe I do need to go see someone?
Thankfully s certain grey bunny brought me back to reality at that moment, "Are you okay Nick, you sort of zoned out for a bit?"
"Huh…" I replied intelligently, "Sorry Judy, I was just trying to figure out how we're going to make this work." I quickly lied, hopefully, she'll buy it… Damn, I called her Judy, maybe she didn't notice? I silently prayed.
She looked at me funny, I don't think she's buying it. The sarcastic voice informed me, thank you soo much for pointing that out to me, don't you think I noticed that as well? Was the way I responded to the voice. She continued, so to appear as if she hadn't caught me lying, "What did you come up with then?"
"I'm thinking I will set the camp bed up next to yours so then we can both get to the door if we need to go to the loo." I had actually given it some thought so it wasn't a complete lie earlier. "I'm going to move your chair into the far right corner of the room while the bed is out, but when the bed isn't being used the chair will be in its usual place in front of your desk and the camping bed will be folded in the far right corner."
"That was actually well thought out," Judy said somewhat surprised. "Sounds like a plan then, it's almost 7 so I say we set things up and then go to a little café I like for tea, then back home and bed?"
"Yeah, sounds good I'm a bit peckish anyway so I'm up for that."
Judy's Pov:
I can't shake the feeling that Nick wasn't being truthful earlier but what would he lie to me about, and why? I pondered in silence, I'm sure he has his reasons… but I can't help but be curious.
Now that Nick is all moved in its time to get something to eat, and celebrate, we decided we would go to one of my favourite local cafés, the soft rock diner. Nothing beats good homemade food at an old school diner, especially one that plays classic rock and roll from a real jukebox!
Anyway… back on topic, Nick and I were still in my flat… I mean our flat getting ready to go out for a light supper. Nick had set the camping bed in the corner, like he said he would when it's not in use, and was patiently waiting for me to set down my few belongs from the hospital. My changer, extra set of clothes, pyjamas and such.
"Right… all set, let me just grab my purse then we can go." I told him, he just shook his head at me with a smirk, "Excuse me?" I asked, "What are you smirking at Wilde?"
His smirk transformed into that genuine smile of his, the one he doesn't show very often, that will soon change, I'll make sure he lives a happier life from now on. I silently swore to myself.
"Leave your purse, Hopps." He told me kindly, "I'm paying for dinner."
"But it's not righ…" I started before he cut me off.
"It's the least I can do, seeing as you're putting me up for the foreseeable future."
"Still I would prefer it if I at least paid for my meal."
"Nonsense." He said to me sternly but in a friendly way, his smile never faltering on his face. "It would be ungentlemanly of me to go out for a meal with you and do anything less."
"Fine!" I succumbed to him, yet again I might add. "But I'm paying next time!"
"We'll see about that." He challenged back. Ugh… why does he need to be so confrontational?
My response was to huff with indignation as I made my way towards the door, Nick stood at the door holding it open for me. "After you." He told me. I stopped, looked him in the eye and told him, "No."
"Pardon?" He asked, lifting his left eyebrow in confusion.
"You haven't got your own key yet so in the meantime, I need to lock up, therefore it would be pointless for me to exit first."
He muttered, "Ohh…" As realisation washed over him. "I didn't think of that."
"See," I said pointedly, "I'm not just a pretty face."
Nick walked past me out of the door, on his way I could have sworn I heard him mumble, "No… but you are pretty." I felt my face heat up, did he just say that… or am I just mishearing things? I wondered as I locked up. I decided not to think about it and pretend I didn't hear what I thought I heard, just to be on the safe side.
I turned on my heel and started back down the narrow hallway, I looked over my left shoulder at Nick as I went and said to him, "Come on then, its only round the corner but it shuts at nine on a weeknight." I face forwards again and continue on my way to the stairwell.
I can't describe to you how it felt to be out of that hospital with my best friend and on our way to my favourite café. As we made our way back down the stairs I had time to think about what will happen now that Nick is moved in, will things proceed how they already are or will it be another trial for our friendship to endure? The comfortable silence was broken when we reached the street that stretches out in front of our apartment building, Nick was the one to speak first.
"Which way is the diner?" He asked me, "I don't think I've been to this one before, the soft rock diner you say?" His brows scrunched up in confusion as if the thought that he doesn't know every nook and cranny of Zootopia was baffling to him. "I can't say I've heard of it, but oh well… lead on then rabbit, foods a-waitin'!" He cried good-naturedly.
"It's this way, Slick." I enlightened him, gesturing over my shoulder in its general direction.
We continued down the deserted street, the wind rustled in the leaves of trees as we passed as if greeting. The first of the street lamps were beginning to turn on, their warm orange light mixing with the dying Sunlight and creating swirling patterns of different shades as it drifted through the branches of the small trees like the glass fragments in a kaleidoscope.
Our walk to the diner didn't take too long, it is just around the corner from our apartment. It feels strange to say our apartment… like this is some sort of dream and any minute I will wake up and find out that none of this happened. Don't get me wrong, I love the fact that Nick and I are now roomies and I have no doubt it will bring us closer as friends, but it just seems so surreal at the moment.
As we made our way on the final stretch of the journey to the café we didn't say much, we walked in comfortable silence. In all honestly I think I preferred it that way, it had been a long and exciting day and I just wanted to take it easy and enjoy a nice meal with my best friend.
The small diner finally appeared before us, it's amazing how hunger can make time seem longer, on the outside, it doesn't look much different to a normal café; large windows exposing booths, counter at the far back of the shop, a few stools at the counter, you know general café stuff. The only real differences are a few of pieces of rock memorabilia like a couple of autographed portraits, an electric guitar mounted on the wall and 'The soft rock diner' written in neon above the door… oh and the sound of '50's and '60's rock drifting through the propped open door.
As we proceeded into the late night diner I could hear 'hound dog' playing in the background, one of my all-time favourites. Out the corner of my eye, I could see Nick miming the song while ever so slightly dancing to the beat, I made a mental note to come here more often. It seems Nick and I share a similar taste in music.
We made our way over to a free booth in the corner of the café, behind us the light of the street lamps shined in through the large windows casting a warm orange glow over the front of the café.
The café was cosy, there was a calm, friendly atmosphere to the place which almost instantly put me at ease as if I was back home having a meal with my family. The smell of food in the air did nothing to help with my hunger and judging by the wistful look on Nick's face I could tell he felt the same way as I. The music played softly in the background, quietly enough that it would be easy to have a conversation over the iconic songs of ears come to pass, but loud enough that it would fill the gaps left by the comfortable silence of two friends enjoying their meal together.
The diner wasn't too busy, about normal so roughly about twenty odd customers. I remembered on a particularly busy night I had trouble even finding a seat at the counter free, let alone a table to eat at. Nick and I took a menu each from the holder at the end of our booth and started to browse through what they had to other. Let's see, Seasonal soup, beetroot, carrot and orange salad, veggie burgers, chilli… hmmm, I think I will go for the salad.
"I'm thinking of having the salad, what about you Nick?" I asked, looking up from my menu to Nick sitting on the other side of the table.
"Tough choice, I'm leaning towards a veggie burger with chips." He replied hungrily.
"Huh… I would have thought you'd go for the bug burger."
"Well you see, Carrots, I've never been too fond of either bugs or fish so I just stick to fresh food."
"I never knew that I can't believe after all we've been through I didn't know you were vegetarian."
"In all fairness, it hasn't come up, it's not exactly how usual conversations start."
We put our menus back in their holder, "Shall we go up and order?" Nick asked me, obviously eager for his food.
"Yep!" I responded enthusiastically, "I'm looking forward to my salad, I haven't had theirs yet.
We approached the counter to place our order, the female waiting to serve us was an older looking arctic wolf. She had a kind face and warm eyes, but they held a sternness to them as well, she reminded me of my grandmother; loving, caring, compassionate, but more than willing to teach you proper manners, even if that did mean punishment. The ageing wolf sat on a stool on the other side of the counter, she saw us approaching and rose from her set so she could meet us at the till.
"What can I do for you two?" She asked kindly.
"We would like to order, please." Responded Nick politely.
"Of course, what will it be for you two, dears?"
Nick looked at me and then gestured with his hand for me to go first, "Ladies first." He mumbled, just encase the gesture needed to be clarified. "Thank you." I mouthed back, as I stepped up to the counter.
"Could I have the beetroot, carrot and orange salad, please?"
"What drink would you like with that, love?"
"Could I get a peppermint and nettle tea please?"
"Certainly." She then turned towards Nick, "And what about you, dear, what can I get you?"
"Can I have the veggie burger with chips, please? And could I have that with a chocolate milkshake please?"
"That will be $14.20 please." Nick nodded his head in response and then reached into his back pocket for his wallet. I really don't want him to pay for my food! It doesn't feel right.
"Nick…" I started, but soon quieted down when he looked at me. He wanted to pay for it and I was clear by the way he looked. "At least let me chip in." I pleaded.
He smiled at me, "Sorry Carrots, but I did say I'm treating you." He turned back to our waitress, "And besides it would be bad manners of me to ask you to pay, wouldn't you agree?" He continued.
The female behind the counter responded to this question, "It would be in chivalrous of you to pay for it, but in today's day and age females want to be treated as equals. In my opinion, it all depends on the circumstance and the mammals involved."
"Well the circumstance is two friends going out for a meal to celebrate a number of things and one of them, that's me, is deciding to treat the other." Nick helpfully supplied all the information she could need.
"If he's already arranged to pay for it, and it's to treat you then I'd say let him." She replied, and as an after note to me only she said, "It's his own damn fault if he goes through his money, that's males for you; not thinking before they act."
I had to stifle my giggles, but I gave her a discrete wink, she's not wrong Nick certainly doesn't think things through.
Nick took a ten and a five from the front section of his wallet and handed it to our patron, "Keep the change." He said.
"I'll put it in the donation box then."
"Thank you," Nick replied.
I thanked our waitress as well and we then turned and went back to our table. It was a short distance from the counter, it was in the bottom left-pawed corner of the diner near the large stretching windows and only a few tables away from the counter. You see the diner isn't very deep only about five tables deep, but it makes up for this by being wide which allows them to accommodate a large number of mammals and a wide variety of species.
When we reached our suitably sized table nick decided to have a look at what desserts they had to other. I decided I would join him in browsing the sweets and see if anything takes my fancy, Carrot cake, lemon meringue pie, loads of different sorbets, chocolate brownies, bread and butter pudding… Hmm, it all sounds so good, I think I'll wait till after my meal and see what I feel like.
I looked at Nick to see a satisfied look on his face, no doubt he's already decided, knowing Nick he will probably go for the unhealthiest pudding. "I assume you're going for the chocolate brownies with sticky toffee sauce, vanilla ice-cream, and blueberries on the side?" I asked him arching an eyebrow.
He just gaped at me, "How did you know that you weren't even looking at me?" He asked astoundingly.
I just shrugged, "I know what you're like, which means you would most likely go for the least healthy option. As for the berries, it says 'With your choice of berries on the side' and I know blueberries are your favourite."
"I guess you're right, in that case, I'd say you will be going for the carrot cake… actually, I think bread and butter pudding."
"What made you change your mind?"
"You're a farm girl so you like traditional, homemade meals. And bread and butter is an old-school pudding that everyone has at home. Am I right?"
"Yeah… I was leaning more towards that, okay mister-know-it-all what will I have on the side?"
"Custard 'cause that's the classic side, and you like strawberries right? So I think that will be your choice of side."
"I was going to wait till after the meal to see what I fancied if anything because you said you're paying so I might not get anything yet. But if I did then I was thinking of getting what you said." I continued my little rambling session, "And if I do get a pudding then I will be paying you back for both desserts because I'm not having you buy a meal, drink and pudding for me." I told him sternly.
He just smiled that insufferable smirk of his, "No can do, Carrots." He told me slyly. "I said dinner was my treat and seeing how you're letting me live with you it is only fair of me to chip in and this is one of the ways I can do that."
I glowered at the male, "I don't want you to feel the need to do this for me."
"I want to… and besides how else would I have found out about this new retro diner?" He had a somewhat distant look on his face like he wasn't completely here, like a part of his mind was wandering far from home.
The wait for our meal was short, as we had arrived later in the evening then most of the other patrons we didn't have to worry about the peak of the evening shift and so there wasn't many orders due before our own. The rush and bustle of the diner reminded me of small cafés back home in Bunnyburrow, even though the city café was much busier than the ones back home the peaceful and friendly environment made me long for home and appreciate the quiet and stillness that rarely falls on Zootopia.
I was brought out of my thoughts of homesickness when our drinks arrived at our table, shortly followed by our meals. Both Nick and I looked at our meals with keenness, neither one of us could wait to dig into our food but figured it better to have manners. We thanked our waiter and once they had left us we started our meals.
The atmosphere at our table was fun, we would joke back and forth and I would occasionally steal some of Nick's chips, and on more than incident, my hand was jokingly slapped away. To keep things light he would try to nick some of the carrot sticks in my salad, try being the word. Nothing comes between me and my food, especially if carrots are involved. In hindsight, I'd probably given Nick some ammunition on what he could do to annoy me to oh well, c'est la vie.
Judy's PoV:
Our meal passed in the blink of an eye, the conversation was not forced and seemed to flow like running water. It seemed we had no end to material to talk about, we mainly talked about how it will be to live with each other, which inevitably lead to us talking about Nick applying for the Academy. Nick didn't seem too impressed when I reminded him of the fact he has to start training and studying soon for his entry exam and physical.
Which brings you up to speed, currently we were, or rather I was, deciding whether or not to have a dessert. Nick No doubt had already decided to go for something, he always did like sugar and anything unhealthy. We already decided on what we would get so Nick was just waiting on me to decide yes or no. Oh, what the hell! I thought, Sod it I might as well if he is getting one.
"I've decided." I announced after what seemed an eternity, "I will get one on the exception that next time we go out for a meal I am paying for it." I turned towards Nick, "Understood, Slick?"
"Yes, ma'am." He replied mockingly.
We rose from our table and headed off towards the counter to order our desserts, and were greeted by the same female as before. The difference this time was that I gestured to Nick for him to order first.
"You guys decide you're going to have dessert?" Asked the kind old wolf behind the till. Nick and I both nodded our heads in reply, "What will it be then?" She inquired.
"Could I have the chocolate brownies with sticky toffee sauce please?"
"Yep. Would you like berries with that?"
"Can I get that with blueberries please?"
"Sure." She turned towards me, "And what about you dear, what do you fancy?"
"Can I have your bread and butter pudding with custard and strawberries please?"
"No problem, can I get you anything else or will that be all?"
"I'm good, thanks." I countered.
"Me too, but thank you anyway." Was Nick's answer reaction.
"Okay, that will be $7.75 then, please." Stated the wolf.
Nick reached into his back pocket and brought out his wallet for the second time that evening, he removed a ten from his wallet and handed it over, "Keep the change for yourself, thank you again." He told our waitress.
"Thank you, tell your chef our meal was great and I'm sure dessert will be as well." I complimented.
"I'm sure the praise will make their evening, thank you."
We waved goodbye to our hostess for the evening and made our way back to our table. The wait for our desserts wasn't as long as for our meals, so we passed the short amount of time with small talk. I finally brought up the topic Nick's been avoiding; the academy.
"Now that you're all moved in and my leg is on the mend we'll have to start your training." I told him, somewhat smirking internally. He's going to try and weasel out of it somehow, I just know it. I thought to myself.
He looked panicked, it's finally got real for him this is going to happen. "Um… What about your leg though, we won't be able to do anything too strenuous encase you injure it?" He asked.
"I've already thought of that, one I would start you off on anything too difficult anyway, and two I need to help my leg recover by doing exercises to help it heal in all the right places and ways."
"If you're sure, I guess I can give it a try." He smiled, "Anyway how hard could it be with you mentoring me, you're probably the only mammal who could motivate me to do it… I mean because you're the only one stubborn enough." He added as an afterthought.
"Great to hear because we start running tomorrow morning so make sure you get a good night's sleep."
"Yippee!" He said sarcastically, twirling his finger in the air in 'joy'.
Our dessert chose that moment to turn up so our waiter gave Nick a strange look for his outburst.
"Um…" Said our waiter, "I have a sticky toffee pudding…"
Nick put his hand up again, "That's me please." He set the plate down in front of Nick then turned round to me.
"I guess that means the bread and butter is yours."
"Thank you," I said, he set my plate down in front of me and whispered to me. "Your boyfriend is weird, is he always like this?" I couldn't speak, did he really think we were together, can't two friends hang out. Stop getting defensive, part of me thought, and my intelligent reply was, I'm not getting defensive you are. Well done brain, I thought.
Our waiter took my silence as confirmation that we are together and yes he is always like this. "If there is anything else I can get you just ask for Dave." We both thanked him and he left.
We dug into our dessert, both Nick and myself were too engrossed in our puddings to have much of a conversation, but Nick's expression spoke lengths to me. It was clear to me he was enjoying his sticky toffee pudding, or it could have just been the blueberries he was enjoying. My dessert brought back memories of when I was a young kit, I remembered getting home from school and Mum would be in the kitchen preparing dinner and the sweet tantalising smell of bread and butter pudding would float out from the large, generations old, cast-iron oven that she worked over. I remembered rushing through the meal she cooked for us, not because I disliked the food but because I couldn't wait for dessert.
My dessert made me nostalgic for simpler times when all I had to worry about was getting my homework in on time, those childhood memories that seemed to be a lifetime ago yet I can remember them clear as day. It may have been a simple sweet treat but it brought back fond memories of close friends who have long since grown apart and went down their separate roads with their own challenges. My trip down memory lane made me realise just how much I have been through in such a short amount of time and helped me to appreciate just how much Nick was there for me, although we came from different paths we have come together to become close friends following the same route to do some good in this chaotic world.
"You done, Carrots?" Nick's voice brought me jolting back to the present, we both had finished out dessert and Nick had been waiting patiently for me to come out of my trance-like state.
"Y-yeah, I'm done." He offered me his hand and stood up from my seat.
We turned to leave before Nick dashed back to the counter, "I forgot to give you a tip when I paid" he said to the kindly old wolf that had been serving us all evening. He handed over a $10 bill, "that is a very generous tip, thank you." Came her reply. He smiled that heart-melting smile of his, "it's nothing for the great service you have here, thank you again for having us."
"Anytime." She said happily at the compliment.
He jogged back over to me, "Let's go home, I'm knackered."
My stomach gave a little flutter when he said 'home', I like that he feels at home around me, and with that, we started on our way back to our home.
A/N:
Don't worry you'll find out what happens on their first night living together in the next chapter, sorry for making you wait but I felt like being mean and besides I planned on the next one to be about the same length as this one. So that's something to look forward to.
I really wish I could write me fic as well as I can my assignments, at least then you guys would have some longer chapters. The last assignment I did was 22 K long!
If I wrote half as much as my coursework on my fic than I would probably have finished it by now, but alas I am only just getting started. I assure you that there will be plenty more chapters yet to come, I only wish I could say when and how often they will be posted.
I have a plan to go back and re-write some of my earlier chapters but I will try to do this alongside writing new chapters, I will write in the authors notes when and what re-writes I have uploaded so then you can go back and see what improvements I've made.
As always I hope you enjoyed AWL, and I will try to have the fifth chapter completed as soon as possible.